Rare Old Map of Genoa by Clarke, 1836: Cathedral, Palazzo Ducale, Lighthouse, Carlo Felice Theatre, University

Discover the exquisite details of Genoa through the historic "Genoa (Genova, Genes)" map, meticulously crafted by W.B. Clarke and published under the esteemed Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge in 1844. This hand-colored, engraved map offers a fascinating glimpse into the mid-19th century urban landscape of one of Italy's most storied cities. The map is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural significance, capturing the intricate network of streets and the architectural grandeur that defines Genoa.

The map features a detailed layout of Genoa's streets, providing an invaluable reference for understanding the city's historical urban planning. Significant neighborhoods are meticulously delineated, offering a window into the daily life and structure of Genoa during this period. The inclusion of an inset map of Genoa and its environs further enriches the viewer's understanding of the city's geographical context and its relationship with the surrounding region.

One of the most captivating aspects of this map is the comparison of the facades of 14 principal buildings in Genoa. These architectural drawings not only highlight the city's aesthetic beauty but also underscore its importance as a center of art and culture. From the grandeur of the Palazzo Ducale to the elegance of the Carlo Felice Theatre, each structure is a testament to Genoa's architectural heritage and its role in shaping the city's identity.

Landmarks such as the Cathedral, the Church of S. Maria di Carignano, and the iconic Lighthouse are prominently featured, providing a rich tapestry of Genoa's historical and cultural landmarks. These sites are not only significant in their own right but also serve as anchors in the city's urban fabric, guiding both residents and visitors through the historical narrative of Genoa. The map's detailed representation of these landmarks makes it an essential piece for anyone interested in the architectural and cultural history of the city.

The map's design and style reflect the high standards of 19th-century cartography, with a focus on both utility and aesthetic appeal. The hand-colored engravings and detailed illustrations make this map a true work of art, while its historical significance is underscored by its publication under the auspices of the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge. This map is not just a navigational tool but a historical document that offers a unique insight into the urban and cultural landscape of Genoa, making it a prized addition to any collection of historical maps.

Streets and roads on this map

• Albergo dei Poveri
• Albergo di S. Andrea
• Campo Santo
• Capuchin Convent
• Carlo Felice Theatre
• Cathedral
• Church of S. Ambrogio
• Church of S. Annunziata
• Church of S. Maria di Carignano
• Church of S. Siro
• Church of St. John
• Darsena
• Lighthouse
• Palazzo Balbi
• Palazzo Doria
• Palazzo Durazzo
• Palazzo Ducale
• Palazzo Lercari
• Palazzo Pallavicino
• Palazzo Reale
• Palazzo Serra
• Palazzo Spinola
• S. Francesco di Castelletto
• S. Maria in Castello
• St. George's Bank
• University
• Villa Doria
• Villa Pallavicini
• Villa Spinola
• Walls of Genoa

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Inset maps:
• Inset map of Genoa and its environs.
• Illustrations:
• Drawings of the facades of 14 structures titled "A comparison of the principal buildings at Genoa."
• Landmarks:
• Several notable buildings and structures are illustrated and compared.
• Neighbourhoods:
• Various neighborhoods within the city are detailed.
• Other notable features:
• The map includes a compass rose for orientation.

Historical and design context

• Name of the map: Genoa (Genova, Genes)
• Date of creation: The map was published in March 1836, and created by SDUK in 1844.
• Mapmaker or publisher:
• Drawn by W.B. Clarke.
• Engraved and printed by B.R. Davies, 16 George Str., London University.
• Published by Baldwin & Cradock, 47 Paternoster Row, March 1836.
• Later published by Chapman & Hall in 1844.
• Context: The Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge (SDUK) was a British organization aimed at publishing affordable texts and maps to educate the general public.
• Topics and themes:
• The map focuses on the city streets of Genoa.
• It provides a detailed layout of the city's streets and important buildings.
• The inset map shows the surrounding environs of Genoa.
• The comparison of principal buildings showcases the architectural significance of the city's structures.
• Design or style:
• The map is engraved and hand-colored.
• It includes architectural drawings and a detailed street layout.
• The style is typical of 19th-century cartography, with a focus on both utility and aesthetic appeal.
• Historical significance:
• The map provides insight into the urban layout and significant buildings of Genoa in the mid-19th century.
• It reflects the educational mission of the SDUK to disseminate useful knowledge to the public.
• The detailed architectural comparisons highlight the importance of Genoa as a historical and cultural center.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.